Barrie Douglas Foundation backs aspiring pro golfer Alex Simpson

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The Barrie Douglas Foundation is backing a young Perth golfer’s ambition to join the ranks of the professionals.

Alex Simpson (19) has joined the team at the Noah’s Ark Golf Centre, where he was introduced to the game before he even went to school.

The former Perth High pupil has been appointed as an assistant professional by Centre head pro and founder Niall McGill.

His studies will progress through the PGA and the University of the Highlands and Islands, with his sights set on securing a Diploma in Professional Golf.

The foundation, set-up in memory of Fair City businessman Barrie, who led the Scottish Boys team and was a selector for Scottish Golf and the R&A, has awarded Alex a £250 grant.

It goes towards annual costs which include a week-long residential course at The Belfry, seven mandatory rounds of competitive golf, along with travel and accommodation.

“I am grateful to the foundation for helping me pursue my career. I knew Barrie and it is wonderful that so much is being done in his memory,” said Alex, who has impressed at tournaments across the country.

“He was known to everyone in Perth and Kinross Golf and I remember him giving me a lift to a Scotland-England U16 match. It was the funniest journey of my life. Barrie was such a character.”

The former Perth and Kinross and Scotland international fell in love with golf watching dad Kevin play Tiger Woods – on PlayStation.

“I got my first set of clubs for Christmas when I was four and my first lessons were at Noah’s Ark. So I have come the full circle,” recalled Alex, who made his mark on the “Wee Wonders” series and represented Perth and Kinross at all levels.

While he was a member at Murrayshall for a couple of seasons, Alex credits Strathmore GC and junior coach Iain Butchart for nurturing his development as he progressed to a plus one handicap.

Strathmore can boast an ever-improving record of producing talented young golfers, some who have taken their talents across the pond to America.

Butchart, whose successful club hire scheme has helped introduce more kids to the game and recently attracted the attention of Scottish Golf, has played a big part in the development of the club.

And that is something Alex is well aware of.

Alex said: “Iain has helped so many young golfers and Strathmore has a very strong junior section.

“I decided to dip a toe in the professional waters and I am loving life at Noah’s Ark. Niall and everyone else is so supportive.

“I have had my first trip to The Belfry, where I joined golfers from Sweden and Dubai as well as former West Brom footballer Peter Odemwingie.”